Comrade Daniel Onjeh has publicly challenged Pastor David Ogbole, who claims to be the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) senatorial candidate for Benue South, to produce official documents proving his nomination. The dispute arises as preparations for the 2027 senatorial election in Benue South intensify, with both men asserting their claim to the party’s ticket. Onjeh insists that only verified party processes and documentation can confirm a legitimate candidate, rejecting social media declarations as insufficient. He urged supporters to remain calm and focused on the broader goal of delivering effective representation for the constituency.
Onjeh emphasized that political parties have the sole authority to nominate candidates under existing laws and regulations. He stated that any individual claiming to be the NDC’s candidate must provide tangible proof, including receipts for purchasing nomination forms, evidence of fulfilling party requirements, and official documentation showing the party declared him its nominee and forwarded his name to INEC. “If anyone claims that he was duly nominated as the candidate of the NDC, the matter is very simple: let him produce the documents,” Onjeh said. He stressed that self-proclamation on social media does not equate to formal party endorsement.
In response to allegations that he acquired the ticket through financial negotiation, Onjeh categorically denied any transaction involving money. “I have never said anywhere that I bought anybody’s ticket. I neither offered nor negotiated money with anybody in exchange for a senatorial ticket. There was no such discussion, transaction or agreement,” he stated. He clarified that any personal financial assistance he may have given to individuals had no connection to the party’s nomination process. To further substantiate his position, Onjeh challenged Ogbole to publish his OPay account statement for Saturday, July 11, 2026, the date referenced in the public dispute over alleged payments.
Onjeh also raised concerns about Ogbole’s alleged efforts to seek support from candidates of two other political parties, suggesting this undermines the independence of the NDC’s senatorial bid. “To my mind, that amounts to mortgaging the independence of the NDC senatorial ticket even before the race begins,” he said. Since joining the NDC, Onjeh maintained he has refrained from making unilateral claims about his candidacy, relying instead on recognition from party leadership and participation in official party activities.
He called on supporters to avoid insults or confrontations, urging them to stay united and focused on achieving better governance for Benue South. “My message to our supporters is simple: relax. Do not insult anybody. Do not join issues with anybody. Do not allow yourselves to be distracted,” Onjeh said. He reiterated that the truth will emerge through official records and party processes. “Let the documents speak. Let the party processes speak. At the appropriate time, the official records will speak. We remain focused. No distractions.” As the 2027 election draws nearer, the outcome of this internal contest could shape the political landscape in Benue South.
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